As with many other agricultural endeavours, certain varieties of almonds have become the more coveted ones, leading the pack in production and consumption. This is true in both Australia and California, two of the premier almond-growing regions in the world. While there are many varieties of almonds available, just a few have been the big sellers. For good reason too, as these almonds are tasty and versatile. But if you're buying bulk amounts of almonds, should you stick with the leading almond variety or branch out and get a few bags of other cultivars?

The Nonpareil

The nonpareil almond, also called the California nonpareil and the California paper shell almond, is the top almond for production and consumption in Australia. This is the classic almond. It's got the shape, flavour and easy-blanching skin – everything you want in an almond. You can't go wrong with nonpareils as these are really the type of almonds people expect to see, even if they don't know the variety's name. Prices would likely be good because this variety is plentiful and planted in a few areas of Australia.

Other Australian Favourites

The issue with buying only nonpareils, however, is that people have different tastes. Someone who likes nonpareils might love the stronger flavour of the carmel almond, a California-type nut that is also grown in Australia. (Note that "California type" refers to an agricultural classification; another type is "mission type." Carmels grown in Australia may be referred to as Australian carmels.) People preferring sweeter almonds might like the Australian price almond. By offering more varieties, you could turn some buyers who occasionally buy almonds into real fans of specific varieties.

The Self-Fertilising Newcomers

The concern over the bee population, which is essential for pollinating almond tree blossoms, has led researchers at the University of Adelaide to develop self-fertilising varieties of almonds. Four varieties are now being grown (six were developed in total, but only four are self-fertilising), and while they aren't nearly as widespread as the carmel or nonpareil, they are making inroads into commercial almond production. Varieties like Carina and Maxima may represent the future of almond growing if the bee population continues to experience turbulence. Providing these varieties as part of your bulk purchase can expose more people to these almonds and potentially win the varieties more fans and thus heavier demand.

For more information, contact a bulk almond supplier in your area.